In general, the API-commissioned poll found that voters appreciate the role that domestic oil and gas development plays in the economy and in funding the government. For instance, 84 percent of respondents said they agreed that producing more domestic oil and gas can benefit federal and state budgets and 89 percent said it would generally help the economy.

Eight-seven percent said they agreed that producing more domestic oil and gas could help lower consumers’ energy costs.

Erik Milito, API’s upstream director, said the survey shows Americans understand the link between energy and the economy.

“Americans get it: domestic oil and natural gas development is a key driver for new jobs, economic growth and energy security,” Milito said in a statement. “Our country is now firmly positioned as an energy superpower, and most Americans want our nation to seize opportunities to build upon that status.”

State-specific polls commissioned by API documented similar support for offshore oil and gas development in key coastal states: Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Florida.

The federal government has ruled out selling drilling leases in U.S. waters along the mid-Atlantic through June 30, 2017, including an area targeted for leasing off the Virginia coast.

But oil industry representatives who want to see that activity have started pressing the Interior Department to include possible Atlantic activity in the next five-year plan governing offshore lease sales from July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2022.

Jennifer A. Dlouhy covers energy policy, politics and other issues for The Houston Chronicle and other Hearst Newspapers from Washington, D.C. Previously, she reported on legal affairs for Congressional Quarterly. She also has worked at The Beaumont Enterprise, The San Antonio Express-News and other newspapers. Jennifer enjoys cooking, gardening and hiking. She lives in Washington, D.C., with her husband and toddler son.

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